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Home » Destinations

Visiting King Ludwig’s Castles

By: Claire  On: June 17, 2015  Updated: August 12, 2024   Leave a comment

While my family was visiting me a few weeks ago we got a chance to tour two of King Ludwig’s castles, Linderhof and Neuschwanstein. Better known as the mad king, Ludwig had a thing for building extraordinarily over-the-top castles and a reputation for being a one man wolf pack, so to speak. King Ludwig never married, but was devoted to the arts and showed a particular fondness for the operas of Richard Wagner. Odds are you’ve heard of Neuschwanstein, better known as Cinderella’s castle or “that one cool castle that’s plastered all over Pinterest.” Bonus points to those of you who knew that a second, much more decadent castle also existed in Bavaria. DSC_0829

Based on the pictures you might not initially believe me when I say that Linderhof was even more ornately decorated than Neuschwanstein. A much smaller building, Linderhof was Ludwig’s preferred residence and was set up in such a way that he could navigate the entirety of the main floor without having to see anybody. DSC_0808

You guys, this palace was packed with decorations. I actually felt a bit claustrophobic walking around in it because every little nook and cranny was so ornately decorated. Of the two tours, I felt like I learned the most about King Ludwig from my visit to Linderhof because he loved the palace so much. The gardens surrounding the palace are beautiful as well, and the view of the mountains on the walk to the palace grounds is amazing. The walk to Linderhof--Tall Girl Big World Linderhof--Tall Girl Big World Linderhof--Tall Girl Big World Linderhof--Tall Girl Big WorldUnlike Linderhof, Neuschwanstein was never completed due to the King’s untimely (and quite mysterious) death. However, the tour of the castle takes you to quite a few rooms, many of which are dedicated in some way to Richard Wagner. I loved how the walls of Neuschwanstein told the stories of various lovers from Wagner’s works and how the rooms had no coherent theme to them. Ludwig’s odd personality definitely was on display here, as shown by the fake grotto he constructed outside of his bedchamber (which is just one example of many). Walk to Neuschwanstein-Tall Girl Big World Neuschwanstein-Tall Girl Big World

If you ever get the chance to visit Neuschwanstein, I definitely recommend that you hike up to the bridge overlooking the castle. You’ll be able to get a postcard-worthy photo of the grounds from there, and it’ll also give you an excuse to grab an ice cream cone on your way back down. Neuschwanstein-Tall Girl Big World

I really don’t think I could choose which castle I like better. Both had stunning interiors, and they each added to the eccentric history of King Ludwig. One thing I would note about Neuschwanstein, however, is that you must take an audio tour that’s very tightly regulated. At times, I felt a bit rushed and wasn’t able to fully oogle each room before getting moved to the next one. That being said, both castles absolutely need to be put on your bucket list because they are simply stunning.

What other castles do you guys recommend visiting?

Signing off,

Claire

 

posted in: Destinations, Europe, Germany

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Written by Claire

Hiya! I'm the writer and photographer behind Tall Girl Big World. After being laid off from my corporate editorial job in NYC, I spent a year building up my freelance writing business before moving to Berlin, Germany in 2019. As of 2025, I've just received my permanent residence permit and can now officially call Berlin home. I've traveled extensively throughout Germany and share my top tips and recommendations in my detailed travel guides. I also write guides to my favorite European destinations (when my freelance schedule allows, that is!). Meet Claire.

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Claire - Author of Tall Girl Big World.

Hiya, I'm Claire!

After being laid off from my corporate job in NYC, I packed up my bags and moved to Berlin in 2019. Tall Girl Big World is where I share my adventures in Berlin and beyond. You'll find detailed guides on my favorite European cities as well as my top tips and resources for living abroad.

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